News

Raising Silkie, ornamental, and bantam chicks can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Known affectionately to many in the poultry community as “yard candy” or “flock ornaments”, these unique and charming birds are fun to raise. With their fluffy plumage and gentle temperament, Silkie and ornamental chickens such as Polish and Houdan are prized for their unique appearances and friendly personalities. Bantam chickens are miniature versions of standard breeds, making them perfect for small spaces and urban settings. That said, these special chicks do require special care, particularly when it comes to their nutrition. Ensuring Proper Nutrition Proper nutrition is vital...

Parasites have several negative effects on cattle health and productivity. They suppress appetite, negatively impact growth, damage gut lining and make cattle more susceptible to disease. An Iowa State University study calculated a cost of up to $190 per animal resulting from the decreases in gain and reproduction in non-dewormed cattle. Cattlemen should consider a deworming program to combat parasites as a critical part of a herd health plan. This allows cattle to reach their full genetic potential, increase intake, nutrient absorption, and improved overall health, growth and reproduction. Before we get to some thoughts about a program, let’s talk...

Spring is definitely upon us and for those who have forgotten what it looks like, this is known as a whitetail deer buffet! We are currently experiencing one of the best springs I have ever seen, and that is great news as far as antler production is concerned. Antler growth is directly correlated with spring rainfall. Simply put, the more it rains March through May, the better antlers will be regardless of other variables. It is important to note though that proper supplementation can still get you that extra 10% even in lush green conditions provided you are feeding the...

The golden crumble your new baby chicks are devouring these days was carefully formulated for their unique needs. Chick Starter. What’s in it? You won’t be surprised to hear that a large component of chick starter is grains. Poultry have a unique digestive system that you can learn more about here. Their digestive system is suited well for taking advantage of the nutrients found in these grains. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common grains found in poultry feed. These ingredients are carefully selected in order to support a baby chick’s nutritional needs: Energy to support daily...

Spring is a busy season on the farm, bringing longer days, warmer weather, and the promise of a productive year ahead. To ensure success, now is the time to prepare your fields, care for your livestock, and maintain your equipment. Here are some essential tips to help you get your farm ready for spring. 1. Preparing Your Fields Healthy soil is the foundation of a successful growing season. Start by testing your soil to determine nutrient levels and pH balance. Based on the results, apply the necessary fertilizers or amendments to promote optimal crop growth. When selecting crops, consider rotating...